Wrapping material roll tensioner

ABSTRACT

A roll tensioner for use in maintaining a wrapping material cut edge of a wrapping material retained on a wrapping material roll located within a wrapping material box having an interior cavity with an interior front wall with a top cutting edge. The roll tensioner comprises a thin, flexible main body having distal and proximal end sections separated by a spring back reversion section, and formed having a first side and a second side. Attachment means, preferably an adhesive, is located on at least a portion of the proximal end section on the first side adapted to attach the proximal end section to the interior front wall of the wrapping material box. The spring back reversion section is composed of a material that has an immediate elastic response to a static load and is capable of substantially full recovery when the static load is removed. The distal end mechanically bends downward by way of the spring back reversion section in the interior cavity of the wrapping material box. The distal end section is adapted to rest against the wrapping material proximal to the wrapping material cut edge to retain the wrapping material cut edge in an upward, substantially parallel position to the interior front wall of the wrapping material box for easy grasping of the wrapping material cut edge by an end user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of applicant's co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/617,118 filed Jul. 22, 2017 entitled “WrappingMaterial Roll Tensioner”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedin its entirety by reference thereto.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to roll tensioner devices forspooled wrapping materials; and more particularly to wrapping materialroll tensioners for barrier wrappings, or packaging wrap that is spooledonto a tube or core.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Barrier wrappings, packaging wrap that is spooled onto a tube or core,typically composed of cardboard or other fiber materials, have aplethora of applications, including food coverings and other wrappingmaterials which cover, wrap, contain, store or preserve goods. Thesewrapping materials include, for non-limiting example, aluminum foil, waxpaper, freezer paper, parchment paper, deli wrap, paperboard (cardboard)produced from chemical pulp produced in the Kraft process (Kraft paper),as well as other similar materials in both gauge and weight, which arespooled onto a tube or core in a similar manner. Such wrapping materialsare arranged on the tube or core and as the user utilizes the wrappingmaterial the material is unrolled or unspooled and cut along a metalcutter strip. When the section is removed or cut from the wrappingmaterial spool the remaining wrapping material edge drops down to thebottom of the box containing the wrapping material spool. As a result,the wrapping material becomes crinkled and disheveled, and the user muststruggle to find and grab the material edge with his/her fingers. Often,the user's fingers or hands inadvertently contact the metal cutterstrip, which causes scratching, abrasions and/or cuts on the fingers orhands. This problem is especially prevalent with aluminum foils and somepapers where instances of both paper cuts to fingers, from the sharpedge of a foil or paper sheet as well as abrasions to the back of handfrom the metal cutter, frequently occur. Heretofore disclosed and/orutilized tensioner and/or barrier wrapper devices fail to provide a costeffective solution to this everyday problem experienced by consumers.

Examples of various tensioner and/or barrier wrapper devices are setforth summarily below:

U.S. Pat. No. 2,276,590 to Petskeyes et al. discloses a paper holdingand tensioning means generally constructed having a holding bail whichcooperates with an article elevator to hold one end of a piece ofwrapping paper while the elevator is reciprocated in wrapping operation.The holding means is arranged and constructed to release and reengagethe wrapping paper at the completion of the reciprocation or elevatingcycle of the elevator. Paper on an article is tensioned while beingwrapped or substantially wrapped as a result of the reciprocatingmovement of the elevator.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,326,220 to Henning et al. discloses a tensioningapparatus for maintaining the desired tension in an element beingapplied to a second element. In accordance with one embodiment of theinvention, an apparatus is provided for maintaining constant tension ina web being wound from a pad or roll mounted concentrically of aconstantly advancing cable onto said cable. The constant tension iseffected by utilizing the speed-torque characteristic of an inductiontype torque motor to apply, through a-planetary differential mechanism,a torque tending to rotate a spider on which the feed pad or roll ismounted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the motorwhich supplies power to advance the cable also tends to drive the padthrough the differential mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,231,560 to Stohlquist discloses a tension controlledapparatus for feeding web material from a supply source to processingequipment of the type that exerts a pulling force on the web. Theapparatus includes a drive wheel and a driven wheel mounted for rotationabout an axis parallel to the drive wheel and for shifting movementtoward and away from the drive wheel. A web feed roller is connectedcoaxially to the driven wheel for rotation thereby. Means are providedfor guiding the web material to cause it to wrap part way around the webfeed roller as it passes from the supply source to the processingequipment. The web material exits from the web feed roller in an exitingdirection having a substantial component in a direction to shift thedriven wheel into driving engagement with the drive wheel in response totension applied by the processing machine on the web of material exitingfrom the feed roller.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,870,212 to Polk discloses a dispenser-holder of simpleconstruction for foils which come packaged in a box of substantiallysquare cross-section. The dispenser-holder is adapted to receive andhold the box. The holder has a rigid ledge with a cutting edge so thatthe foil may be unrolled from the box and cut to the desired size withone hand. After cutting, a protruding edge of the foil remains on theroll, and extends over the rigid ledge so that the next sheet is readilyobtained therefrom.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,716,317 to Gafner et al. discloses a tension decurlerfor web material. The material is decurled by controlling web tension aswell as the angle of wrap on a decurler roll and a cooperating pivotroll, all without affecting web tension in the downstream web convertingprocess. An upstream brake roll and a downstream pull roll control webtension within the decurler apparatus and independent decurler rolls areprovided for removing up-curl and down-curl.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,733,218 to Hansen et al. discloses an apparatus fordispensing sheet material from a sheet material dispenser. Dispenserembodiments include drive and tension rollers supported within a housingforming a nip therebetween. Pulling of sheet material through the nipand against the drive roller rotates the drive roller. Dispenserembodiments may include a cutting mechanism powered by drive rollerrotation with an improved carrier-supported blade permittinghighly-efficient dispenser operation. Dispenser embodiments may includea sheet material tail length adjuster which permits the attendant toshorten or lengthen the tail length extending away from the dispenser.Dispenser embodiments may further include a sheet material conservationfeature which imposes a delay between dispense cycles, encouraging useof a single sheet of material and discouraging sheet material waste.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,284,085 to Pace discloses a device for holding andhandling a roll of wrapping material. The device has a tube handle, atube extension adjustably connected to the tube handle, a top end cap onthe tube handle, a bottom end cap on the tube extension, and atensioning means, wherein the bottom end cap releasably holds the rollof wrapping material on the tube extension against the tensioning means.The tensioning means is adjustable while the device is in use, applyingwrapping material to an item to be wrapped.

U.S. Patent Application No. 2008/0127791 to Benedetti et al. discloses afilm dispenser comprising a housing adapted to receive and hold a rollof film. The dispenser has a dispensing opening through which a layer offilm may pass. In addition, the dispenser is provided with a movablecutting unit having a blade mounted therein. The dispenser furthercomprises a cutting channel shaped and positioned to receive the blade.It is preferred that the dispenser has means to maintain tension in thefilm as it is cut.

U.S. Patent Application No. 2011/0147254 to Pierron discloses a foilpackaging for soft food masses. A container film shape is formed intothe shape of an open container and a lidding film is sealed onto thecontainer film closing the container with a lid. The container film andlidding film are multi-layered. One of the layers is an aluminum foil,which is optionally pre-lacquered and if desired printed on andlacquer-coated on one side. The aluminum foil of the container film andthe lidding film is coated with a polymer, and a hot-sealing lacquer isprovided on the polymer layer of the container film. The polymer,optionally coated with hot-sealing lacquer, may be situated on thesealing side of the aluminum foil of the lidding film, and a corrosionprotection layer, if desired in the form of a polymer, is provided onthe other side of the aluminum foil. Alternatively, the aluminum foil ofthe lidding film may be coated on the sealing side with hot-sealinglacquer and the polymer layer, optionally coated with hot-sealinglacquer, is situated on the other side of the aluminum foil.

Foreign Patent Application No. WO/2003/099693 to Benedetti et al.discloses a film dispenser (10) comprising a housing (12) adapted toreceive and hold a roll of film (14) and having a dispensing opening(50) through which a layer of film may pass. The dispenser is providedwith a movable cutting unit having a blade (30) mounted therein. Thedispenser (10) further comprises a cutting channel (26) shaped andpositioned to receive said blade (30). It is preferred that thedispenser (10) have means to maintain tension in the film as it is cut.

Foreign Patent Application No. EP0358477 to Asbury et al. discloses atape dispenser including an automatic tension control mechanism andprovision for auto-splicing the tail portion of one tape to the leadingportion of another. The tensioning mechanism includes a brake band thatextends at least partially about a tape spindle and is tensioned inresponse to the position of a spring-biased tensioning roller over whichthe tape is routed.

Internet Publication “Aluminum Foil Dispenser” found athttp://www.organizeit.com/aluminum-foil-dispenser.asp discloses analuminum foil dispenser having a magnetic lid and slide cutter thatallows the user to cut a desired portion of aluminum foil. The dispensercan be refilled with store-bought rolls of aluminum foil or wax paperfor reuse.

Despite the aforementioned tensioner and/or barrier wrapper devices,problems in barrier wrapper roll edge tension and deformation stillexist. For example, current tensioner and/or barrier wrapper devices donot provide a mechanical device that provides a cost effective way toprevent the roll edge of a barrier wrapper roll, such as aluminum foil,wax paper, parchment paper, etc., from falling below the roll, therebycausing it to deform and become difficult to grasp when used.

Accordingly, there exists a need in the art for a device that maintainsthe position of the material edge at or near the top of the box sidewall so that an end user can readily grab the material end withouthaving to reach within the box and risk disheveling the wrappingmaterial and/or injuring his/her fingers or hands.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a wrapping material roll tensioner forbarrier wrappings, or packaging wrap that is spooled onto a tube orcore, typically composed of cardboard, a fibrous material, and/or apolymeric material. The subject roll tensioner provides an economical,novel approach that addresses problems in the art associated withslippage and maintenance of the cut edge of a wrapping material roll.Providing an improvement in the packaging wrap art, the roll tensioneris directed to a device that maintains the cut area of the wrappingupward and away from the front wall of the box, thereby creating a gapbetween the front wall of the box and the roll of wrapping material, orin some instances, above the metal cutter strip, thereby preventing theremaining wrapping end from dropping down to the bottom of the box aftereach use of the wrapping material. Prevention of the wrapping materialedge from dropping down to the bottom of the box results in an easilyaccessible edge for the user to grab without needing to search aroundthe bottom of the box, struggling with wrapping material. Wrappingmaterial is readily accessed and advanced, and cuts and scrapes to thehand and fingers are mitigated. The term wrapping material as usedherein refers generally, but non-limiting, to plastic wrap, wrappingpaper, aluminum foil, wax paper, freezer paper, parchment paper, deliwrap, paperboard (cardboard) produced from chemical pulp produced inprocess such as the Kraft process (for example sold under the trade nameKraft paper), as well as other similar materials in both gauge andweight.

In a first embodiment, there is provided a roll tensioner for use inmaintaining a wrapping material cut edge of a wrapping material retainedon a wrapping material roll. The wrapping material roll is locatedwithin a wrapping material box having an interior cavity with aninterior front wall with a top cutting edge. The roll tensionercomprises a thin, flexible main body having distal and proximal endsections separated by a spring back reversion section, and formed havinga first side and a second side. Attachment means, preferably anadhesive, is located on at least a portion of the proximal end sectionon the first side adapted to attach the proximal end section to theinterior front wall of the wrapping material box. A spring backreversion section is composed of a material that has an immediateelastic response to a static load and is capable of full recoveryimmediately when the static load is removed. The distal end mechanicallybends downwardly owing to the spring back reversion section in theinterior cavity of the wrapping material box. The distal end section isadapted to rest against the wrapping material proximal to the wrappingmaterial cut edge to retain the wrapping material cut edge in an upward,substantially parallel position to the interior front wall of thewrapping material box for easy grasping of the wrapping material cutedge by an end user.

In another aspect of the invention, a roll tensioner is provided for usein maintaining a wrapping material cut edge of a wrapping materialretained on a wrapping material roll located within a wrapping materialbox having an interior cavity with an interior front wall having a topcutting edge. The roll tensioner comprises a thin, flexible main bodyhaving distal and proximal end sections separated by a spring backreversion section, and formed having a first side and a second side. Theproximal end section comprises opposing bottom tabs adapted to mate withslots located within a wall of said wrapping material box to secure saidroll tensioner in place therein, and wherein said distal end comprisesopposing top tabs forming a “T” shaped distal end section. The springback reversion section is composed of a material that has an immediateelastic response to a static load and is capable of full recoverysubstantially immediately when said static load is removed. The distalend mechanically bends downwardly owing to said spring back reversionsection in said interior cavity of said wrapping material box. Thedistal end section is adapted to rest against said wrapping materialproximal to said wrapping material cut edge to retain said wrappingmaterial cut edge in an upward, substantially parallel position to saidinterior front wall of said wrapping material box for easy grasping ofsaid wrapping material cut edge by an end user.

Also provided is a method of using a roll tensioner that maintains thecut edge of wrapping material retained on a wrapping material rolllocated within a wrapping material box having an interior cavity with aninterior front wall having a top cutting edge, comprising the first stepof placing the roll tensioner within the interior cavity of the wrappingmaterial box, the roll tensioner comprising: (i) a thin, flexible mainbody having distal and proximal end sections separated by a spring backreversion section, and formed having a first side and a second side;(ii) the spring back reversion section being composed of a material thathas an immediate elastic response to a static load and being capable offull recovery immediately when the static load is removed. In the secondstep, the roll tensioner is attached to the first side of the proximalend section to the interior front wall of the wrapping material boxproximal to the top cutting edge of the wrapping material box. Thedistal end mechanically bends downward by way of the spring backreversion section in the interior cavity of the wrapping material box.The distal end section is adapted to rest against the wrapping materialand below the cut edge to retain the wrapping material cut edge in anupward position substantially parallel to the interior front wall of thewrapping material box to facilitate grasping of the wrapping materialcut edge by an end user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be more fully understood and further advantages willbecome apparent when reference is had to the following detaileddescription of the preferred embodiments of the invention and theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a side plan view depicting the problem in the priorart which the subject roll tensioner solves;

FIG. 2a illustrates a side plan view of the subject roll tensioner whichsolves the problem in the art;

FIG. 2b illustrates a top plan view of a conventional household wrappingmaterial box with an embodiment of the subject roll tensioner insertedtherein;

FIG. 3a illustrates a top side view of the roll tensioner of FIG. 2a-2b, showing the roll tensioner in a reversion or spring backconfiguration;

FIG. 3b illustrates a top plan view of the roll tensioner of FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 3c illustrates side plan view of the roll tensioner of FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 4 illustrates reversion and flexing angles of the spring backreversion section from a vertical plane;

FIG. 5 illustrates a process for manufacturing an embodiment of the rolltensioner;

FIG. 6a illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject rolltensioner shaped as a polygon;

FIG. 6b illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject rolltensioner shaped as a quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallelsides;

FIG. 6c illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject rolltensioner shaped as a quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallelsides;

FIG. 6d illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject rolltensioner shaped as a capital “U” wherein both the distal end and theproximal end include adhesive on the first side, so that that springback reversion section is a flexible “U” shaped configuration;

FIG. 6e illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject rolltensioner shaped as a capital “I”;

FIG. 7a illustrates a top plan view of another embodiment of the rolltensioner;

FIG. 7b illustrates a front top plan view of a wrapping material boxwith the roll tensioner embodiment of FIG. 7a inserted therein and thebox lid open;

FIG. 7c illustrates a front top plan view of the wrapping material boxwith the roll tensioner embodiment of FIG. 7a inserted therein and thebox lid closed;

FIG. 8 illustrates the embodiment of the roll tensioner of FIG. 7a withattachment on the rear of a box rather than in the front of the box.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The best mode for carrying out the present disclosure is presented interms of the embodiments herein. The embodiments described hereincomprise detail used for illustrative purposes and are subject to manyvariations. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions ofequivalents are contemplated, as circumstances may suggest or renderexpedient, but are intended to cover the application or implementationwithout departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not beregarded as limiting. The headings utilized within the description arefor convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

The subject invention is directed to an improvement in the packagingwrap art by providing a roll tensioner device that maintains the cutarea of the wrapping parallel with, or in some instances, above themetal cutter strip. The subject roll tensioner prevents the remainingwrapping end from dropping down to the bottom of the box after each useof the wrapping material. By preventing the wrapping material edge fromdropping down to the bottom of the box, the user no longer needs tosearch around the bottom of the box struggling to grab the edge of thewrapping. Cuts, scrapes and abrasions to the hand and fingers arethereby prevented, and the integrity of the wrapping material ismaintained. While preventing injury to the hand/fingers and maintainingthe integrity of the wrapping material, the subject roll tensioner doesnot interfere or obstruct a normal customer use in any way. The rolltensioner is appointed to be installed to the inside/center front wallof the box in an inconspicuous position. This allows the end user toeffortlessly grip onto the wrapping, regardless of left or right handeduse. A space is created between the wrapping material and the metalcutter that allows the user to hold onto the wrapping and pull out thedesired length. Once the desired length is removed, the wrapping can becut in the usual way, and the wrapping edge will stay held up near thecutter and ready for the next use.

Packaging of the roll tensioners may be accomplished by randomly placingloose parts into a cardboard box for bulk shipments. Parts may be easilyremoved from the box as needed using this method. Alternately, the rolltensioners, while still attached to main carrier, may be spooled onto acore (into a roll shape) for automated or semi-automated dispensing.Either way, boxes may be shrink wrapped, placed on a standard pallet andbulk shipped to the intended destination via standard shipping methods.

The roll tensioner can be installed in at least two different ways,depending on the desired distribution method. Automated manufacturingmethods can vary; however, a first option entails installing the partmechanically, from a spool, in an automated way, at the time of wrappingmaterial manufacture. Installation should occur prior to placing thewrapping roll into the packaging box. This will allow automation whichis critical to any fast pace modern manufacturing line. The rolltensioner can be attached to the inside of the box (first having thebacker removed from the adhesive tape already on the part); the rolltensioner is mechanically bent over as the wrapping roll is placed intothe box, setting the tensioner into the correct position. The box wouldthen be closed and sealed as in the conventional manner. No changeswould be required to current shipping procedures. The second method,applicable when wrapping material is sold at retail or directly to anend user, provides for the end user to open the box and remove thewrapping roll. The end user then peels off the adhesive backer from theroll tensioner with his/her fingers and places the adhesive (stickyside) portion of the tensioner firmly against the inside, front andcenter of the box. At this point, the top of the tensioner protrudes upbeyond the top inside edge of the box (above the metal cutter strip).Taking the wrapping roll in hand, the end user pushes the wrapping rollagainst the tensioner as he/she places the roll into the box making surethe roll tensioner gently bends over into an upside down “u” shape (seeFIGS. 1 and 2 a) while being careful not to crease or rupture the rolltensioner. If the roll tensioner creases or ruptures while bending, itwill no longer operate correctly.

Costs associated with the subject roll tensioner generally depend on themethod of manufacture, the number of parts per foot, rate (speed) andfluctuating raw material prices. The material used to form the rolltensioner may be FDA compliant, if required for food product use. Somemethods can reuse a percentage of recycled material in the raw materialmixture which will affect the material costs as well. If tooling alreadyexists for the shape required, there would be less up-front investmentcost. This translates into less risk. A new product idea could bebrought to market with low risk and rapidly due to an inexpensive partcost and low up-front investment cost. This would be a low costimprovement to packaging that adds value and ease of use. The rolltensioner would be a desirable benefit to the end user or customer. Theroll tensioner would be a marketing option and sales tool that wouldprovide product differentiation, and unique packaging that stand outwith respect to other wrapping material containers using standardpackaging. There is also a safety concern for wrapping materialmanufacturers to consider, as mentioned above. While using conventionalwrapping packages, cuts, scrapes or abrasions to the hands and fingersare significantly reduced, since the user no longer needing to searcharound the bottom of the box, struggling to grab the edge of thewrapping material. These structural and functional features, and theadvantages they afford provide valuable marketing themes for themanufacturer.

FIG. 1 illustrates a side plan view depicting a troublesome problem withconventional wrapping material containers, shown generally at 10, whichis solved by the subject roll tensioner. After a section of the wrappingmaterial is removed or cut from the wrapping material roll 11 in box 12via metal cutter strip 13 the remaining wrapping material end 14 dropsto the bottom 15 of the box 12. As a result, the end user must reachhis/her fingers down into the box 12 to retrieve the wrapping materialend 14 before next using the wrapping material. When doing so, the enduser's fingers are subject to cuts or injury from the remaining wrappingmaterial end 14, or from the metal cutter strip 13. In order to remedythis problem and provide a solution in the art and an improvement ofwrapping material boxes, the subject roll tensioner is provided.

The conventional box 12 (frequently household cardboard cutter box styledispensers) typically contains perforated tabs 12′ on each end that areappointed to be dented inward by the end user to retain the wrappingmaterial roll within the box 12. Tabs 12′ are designed to prevent theroll from pulling out of the box, but the tabs 12′ do not prevent thematerial roll from sliding to and fro in the box. Nor do tabs 12′control the rolling of the material roll. Because the standard box tabs12′ push in from the bottom (e.g. perforated “U” shape tab), not thetop, they “give” and allow the roll to slide back and forth inside thebox. This problem becomes more evident as the roll diminishes indiameter. The original problem attending maintenance of an easilyaccessible cutting edge of the wrapping material still exists whethertabs 12′ are used or not. The tabs 12′ do not prevent the wrappingmaterial roll from sliding to the back of the box, as shown for examplein FIG. 1. Tabs 12′ only prevent the wrapping material roll from beingpulled up and out of the box as the material is removed from the roll.

These tabs are typically in conventional household cardboard cutter boxstyle dispensers, while commercial cardboard cutter box style dispensersare generally more sophisticated. As an example See:https://www.webstaurantstore.com/choice-18-x-500-food-service-standard-aluminum-foil-roll/12218X5ST.html.Typically, a commercial cardboard cutter box style packaging is marketedtoward commercial kitchens and the wrapping material roll in thisexample is positioned in the box opposite of household boxes. This wouldappear to still have a problem, just in the opposite direction as theroll diminishes in diameter. So, the subject tensioner could beinstalled on the back wall if wrapping is installed in the oppositeposition.

FIG. 2a illustrates a side plan view of the subject roll tensioner,shown generally at 20, which solves the aforesaid problem in the art. Asshown in FIG. 2a , in operation the subject roll tensioner 21 works byemploying a gentle bend under constant tension (shown at 22), against awrapping material end 34 positioned within a box 42. Box 42 typicallycontains perforated tabs 42′ appointed to be dented inward by the enduser to prevent the roll from pulling out of the box. The tabs 42′ donot prevent the wrapping material roll from sliding to the back of thebox, as shown for example in FIG. 2a . Tabs 42′ only prevent thewrapping material roll from being pulled up and out of the box as thematerial is removed from the roll. As the overall diameter of thewrapping material roll 31 diminishes over time, the subject rolltensioner 21 gentle bend continues to assert tension 22 on the roll 31,thereby maintaining the wrapping material end 34 upward and away fromthe front wall of the box, thereby creating a gap between the front wallof the box 42 and the roll of wrapping material.

This maintains the cut area/wrapping material end 34 of the wrappingmaterial 31 parallel with, or in some instances, above the metal cutterstrip 33. The roll tensioner 21 will not allow the remaining wrappingend 34 to drop down to the bottom of the box 42 after each use. Bypreventing the wrapper end 34 from dropping down to the bottom of thebox 42 the user no longer will need to search around the bottom of thebox 42 struggling to grab the edge of the wrapping material end 34,thereby avoiding cuts, scrapes and abrasions to the hand and fingers.

FIG. 2b illustrates a top plan view of a conventional household wrappingmaterial box, shown generally at 200, with the roll tensioner embodimentof FIG. 2a inserted therein. FIGS. 3a-3c illustrate top side, top planand side views of the roll tensioner of FIGS. 2a-2b , showing the rolltensioner in a reversion or spring back and flat configurations,respectfully. An embodiment of a roll tensioner 221 of the subjectinvention is attached within a conventional household wrapping materialbox 242 (such as standard cardboard or other types of containers,including re-usable polymeric, aluminum or metal boxes are contemplatedfor housing a wrapping material roll). This conventional box 242 acts aspackaging, as well as a dispenser for a wrapping material roll having awrapping material 231 spooled on a tube (or core) 231′. A non-limitingexample would be an aluminum foil cardboard box purchased at a retailgrocery store. A household consumer would use the wrapping material asneeded, while the remaining wrapping material is stored in the same box(or packaging/dispenser) for future use. The box 242 can be continuallyused for both storage, as well as a dispenser, until the entire roll ofwrapping material 231 is depleted. At which time the box 242 would bediscarded or recycled. The conventional box 242/packaging/dispenser,often contains an attached metal strip 233 (metal cutter strip) with ajagged edge. The purpose of the metal cutter strip 233 is to allow theuser to cut the wrapping material 231 in a straight line, away from theremaining portion of the roll, to the length required by the useryielding a wrapping material end 234. The conventional household box 242also contains perforated tabs 242′ on each end of the box 242 which canbe used by the end user, to retain the wrapping material roll within thebox 242. It is noted that tabs 242′ prevent the wrapping material rollfrom being removed from the box. However the tabs 242′ do not restrictto and fro movement of the wrapping material roll within the box 242.This can be accomplished by the user pressing the tabs from theoutside-in on each end, taking care to make sure the tab extends intothe inside diameter of the tube (or core) 231′ of the wrapping material231 spool. Often people are unaware that these tabs 242′ are part of thecardboard box 242 and, in any event, their presence does not affect theuse of the wrapping material 231. The subject roll tensioner 221 isdesigned to work either way, with or without, the box 242 tabs 242′being utilized.

Commercial wrapping or foil dispensers (permanent dispensers) do existand are a separately purchased item from the conventional cardboardhousehold consumer packaging. Examples of permanent dispensers can befound for example at:https://www.webstaurantstore.com/edlund-ffd-18-stainless-steel-film-and-foil-dispenser-cutter-for-12-and-18-rolls/333FFD18.html?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=GoogleShopping&gclid=CIK98b6y0dQCFY1LDQodiqoG7Q

and also:https://www.webstaurantstore.com/tablecraft-kk3-kenkut-3-12-18-film-and-foil-dispenser-cutter/808KK3.htmlHowever, for the household consumer, a separate dispenser would requirean additional monetary investment beyond the purchase price of thewrapping alone. The regular household consumer would also needadditional space to store the purchased dispenser. That additionalstorage space would either take up valuable counter space, wall space orcabinet volume. Both constitute precious real estate in most homekitchens. Marketing of these types of dispensers is generally directedtoward commercial kitchen use. In any event, the subject tensioner,optionally, can be used in a permanent dispenser or a commercial sizecardboard cutter box, as well as a household conventional dispenser (asdiscussed above).

Preferably, the roll tensioner 221 is composed of a thin, flexible clearmaterial, such as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and has a thickness of about0.015 inches. Roll tensioner 221 is constructed having distal andproximal end sections, 210 and 211, separated by a spring back/reversionsection 212, and formed having a first side 213 and a second side 214. Athin, flexible, pressure sensitive, permanent adhesive tape 215 with aremovable backer or tab 216 (see FIGS. 3 a-3 c) is applied on at least aportion of the proximal end section 211 on first side 213. Distal end210 extends downward via spring back/reversion section 212 in theinterior of box 242. Proximal end section 211 is attached via adhesivetape 215 to the center of the front inside wall 245 of box 242 under andperpendicular to the metal cutter strip 233 (first having the backer 216removed from the adhesive tape 215). Metal cutter strip 233 can beattached to both the inside and more commonly, the outside of box 242,depending on the box 242 supplier. The position of the metal strip 233is often presented on the outside of the box, but the subject tensioneris not hindered by the metal strips location. These metal strips arequite thin and are typically installed above the operating zone of thesubject roll tensioner. The roll tensioner 221 is mechanically bent overas shown at 221′ owing to the spring back/reversion section 212 as thewrapping material 231 roll is placed into the box 242, setting the rolltensioner 221 into the correct position so that the wrapping materialend 234 rests upward. The roll tensioner 212 holds the edge/wrappingmaterial end 234 upward and away from the front box 242 wall 245,thereby creating a gap between the wall 245 and the roll of wrappingmaterial end 234. This makes it easier to grab the wrapping material end234. The term “mechanically”, as referred to herein means the bending ofthe tensioner due to the application of force, including installation byway of: (i) a machine which mechanically bends the tensioner and ismachine inserted within a box with a wrapping material roll; or (ii) byway of manual application, through a human operator physically bendingthe tensioner while attaching the tensioner within a box and reinsertingthe material wrapping roll. The length of the roll tensioner is adequateto reach the bottom corner of box 242 as shown at 246. The length of theroll tensioner preferably ranges from about 2 inches to 8 inches(depending on the box size or box material; note the tensioner canreadily be cut or stamped to fit specific box sizes). The subjecttensioner design can be adjusted to compensate for box construction.i.e. a rigid box might need a longer tensioner to make up for the lackof “give” in box wall.

FIG. 4 illustrates reversion and flexing angles of the spring backreversion section from a vertical plane, shown generally at 400. Theroll tensioner 421 is shown attached on a front wall of a conventionalhousehold wrapping material box via adhesive on proximal end 411.Different force and static tension are applied against the distal end410 and spring back reversion section 412, respectively. Without beingbound by theory, “tension” herein refers to a force in lbs. when amaterial is pulled, compression being the opposite. Static “Load”,without being bound herein, would be the roll pushing up against thetensioner and compressing the tensioner. A reduction in the applied loadresults as the roll diameter diminishes. Herein, both situations occurin opposite directions. A “load” is being applied to the part and“spring tension” is in the opposite direction applying the storedmechanical energy as it returns to its original shape over time. Forexample, a spring is an elastic object used to store mechanical energy

The static tension is a result of the roll of wrapping material—the morewrapping material loaded on the roll, the greater in diameter the rollis, and therefore the greater the static tension as the force pressingagainst the distal end 410 is greater causing the spring back reversionsection 412 to be at a greater flex angle. Conversely, as the wrappingmaterial is used off the roll and the wrapping material roll becomesreduced in diameter, the force against the distal end 410 decreases andthe static tension of the spring back reversion section 412 results in alesser flex angle. Preferably, the spring back reversion section 412 iscapable of reversion and flexing at an angle Θ ranging between about5°-85° from a vertical plane, herein shown at 450 (the horizontal planeis shown herein at 451). When the wrapping roll has a larger diameterdimension, owing to a large amount of wrapping material spooled thereon,the force against the distal section 410 is great and flex angle of thespring back reversion section 412 is less, for example Θ=˜5° from thevertical plane 450 and the front wall of the wrapping material box, suchas shown at 452. As the wrapping material is used, the wrapping rolldiameter decreases, and the force against the distal section 410decreases, along with the flex angle of the spring back reversionsection 412 angle becoming greater. For example, seeΘ=˜5°→Θ=˜45°→Θ=˜65°→Θ=˜75°→Θ=˜85° (as when the roll is nearly empty ofwrapping material), shown at 452, 453, 454, 455, and 456, respectively.

The term “reversion” as used herein refers to dimensional change inplastics products or viscoelastic materials as a consequence of“material memory”. Original formed shapes of plastic products are“memorized” so that if it is subsequently distorted, it will return toits original shape. The stress/strain response for PVC (like otherthermoplastic materials) is dependent on both time and temperature. As aplastic material is applied with a constant static load, there iscreated an immediate elastic response and the shape is fully recoveredimmediately when the load is removed. Additionally, a slower deformationcontinues while the load is applied, until rupture occurs. This isreferred to as creep. Removal of the load before failure results inrecovery of the original dimensions gradually over time. Temperaturealso influences the rate of creep and recovery. Creep rates typicallyincrease at higher temperatures. Preferably, the roll tensioner has a“T” shape; however a rectangular shape provides another preferred shapeembodiment. Other shapes that include the same structural and functionalparameters are contemplated.

Preferably, the roll tensioner 221 is constructed with a smooth surfaceand a low coefficient of friction material, such as PVC. PVC generallyshows an excellent performance under abrasive conditions. The mainproperties contributing to this are the low elastic modulus andcoefficient of friction. This enables the material to “give” andparticles tend to skid rather than abrade the surface. Materials forconstructing the subject tensioner include low friction materials havingflexibility properties that allow flexure of the tensioner andresiliency that provide for spring back without breakage. Representativematerials include materials generally having a low coefficient offriction, such as for non-limiting example, Teflon, Nylon andPolyurethanes. Thickness of the tensioner is also a consideration whenselecting materials used to construct the subject tensioner. Thematerial forming the tensioner's spring back/reversion section shoulddemonstrate adequate flexibility to deform elastically and return to itsoriginal shape when the applied stress (wrapping material) is removed.“Stress” is a measurement in PSI of the amount of force per area thetensioner material suffers when bent or pulled. It is also noted thatthe material construction of the box wherein the tensioner is mountedcan have an effect on the flexibility and/or thickness of the tensioner.In cases where the box is composed of cardboard, the walls of the boxmay give to a degree so that the stress on the tensioner is dissipatedproportionally. When the box is made of a rigid material, such asplastic or metal, the walls of the box are less likely to give and thestress on the tensioner will be greater. Thus, the tensioner material,length and/or thickness may be adjusted to counteract the material ofwhich the box is composed.

Preferably, the subject tensioner is composed of PVC because it exhibitshigh hardness and mechanical properties especially well suited for itsconstruction. The mechanical properties of rigid PVC (uPVC) are verygood; the elastic modulus can reach 1500-3,000 MPa. Materials havingproperties similar to the empirically preferred PVC, are excellentcandidates for construction of the subject tensioner. A table generallycomparing mechanical properties of other materials to PVC is set forthbelow.

TS FS FM CF Nylon 6 Natural 12,500 15,500 420,000 0.22 PET-Tecapet ®12,500 17,600 430,000 0.25 PTFE 4,000 72,000 0.1 PVC 7,500 12,800481,000 0.3 Polyester (thermoplastic) 14,500 362,594 0.3 Polyurethane6,570 11,800 390,000 0.7TS=Tensile Strength (PSI)FS=Flexural Strength (PSI)FM=Flexural Modulus (PSI)CF=Dynamic Coefficient of Friction per ASTM D3702

Found at:

http://www.plasticsintl.com/sortable_materials.php andhttp://www.efunda.com/materials/polymers/properties/polymer_datasheet.cfm?MajorID=P-TP&MinorID=1

The preferred range for the value of the dynamic coefficient of frictionis between 0.10 and 0.30. Polyurethane has more than twice thecoefficient of friction of the other materials; therefore its use in thesubject tensioner spring back reversion section is limited. Relative tothe Flexural Modulus, a material with at least 350,000 PSI ispreferable. The flexural strength of PTFE (Teflon) ranges from 72,000 to190,000PSI depending on the type of fill used, but is still half of thecomparable values of the other contenders. Found athttp://catalog.wshampshire.com/Asset/psg_teflon_ptfe.pdf. The subjecttensioner is preferably composed of a PVC material or other materialshaving comparable properties to PVC, as the collective presence of theseproperties is especially well suited for construction and prolonged useof the tensioner.

Economics, however, are a major factor and PVC's performance in thecontext of wear rate/unit cost is excellent. The Low Coefficient ofFriction works well in this application so that the wrapping materialslides effortlessly and without any hang-ups over the roll tensioner'ssurface, even under load. The pressure sensitive adhesive backer 216applied to the roll tensioner is of an adequate strength to permanentlyattach to the box and hold the roll tensioner 221 to the box while bentinto the fully installed position and remain attached for continuous useas roll material is removed and the diameter of the roll material isreduced or replaced.

Referring to FIG. 5, a method of making or manufacturing the rolltensioner is proposed. The roll tensioner may be formed in sheets ofmaterial (such as PVC) through die stamping with application of adhesivetape with a peel backing. It is recognized that tooling would berequired for sheet or strip forming as well as die stamping and adhesivetape application (not necessarily in this order). Extruded sheets orstrips of thermoplastic material, such as PVC, are die cut or diestamped into the required shape, herein shown at 301. Variousmanufacturing methods to accomplish this exist and may be used. Shapes301 would be nested in an alternating pattern allowing the adhesive tape302 to be applied in a continuous fashion (with backer attached) acrossalternating nested shapes, correctly positioned to cover all parts. Theparts would then be removed from the main carrier sheet 303 leavingbehind any excess material that is not needed. This excess material maybe ground up and recycled.

Referring to FIGS. 6a-6e , various alternative shaped configurations ofthe subject roll tensioner are shown. FIG. 6a illustrates an alternativeembodiment of the subject roll tensioner shaped as a polygon. FIG. 6billustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject roll tensionershaped as a quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallel sides. FIG.6c illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject roll tensionershaped as a quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallel sides. FIG.6d illustrates an alternative embodiment of the subject roll tensionershaped as a capital “U” wherein both the distal end and the proximal endinclude adhesive on the first side, so that that spring back reversionsection is a flexible “U” shaped configuration that presses against thewrapping material roll cut edge. However, it has been found that this isnot the preferred embodiment because it does not provide a free edge forfollowing and guiding the wrapping material edge as with the otherembodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6a-c and e . FIG. 6e illustrates analternative embodiment of the subject roll tensioner shaped as a capital“I”. In each illustration, the proximal end section is formed having afirst side with a permanent adhesive applied, shown in the shaded regionor regions (via FIG. 6d ).

FIG. 7a illustrates another embodiment of the roll tensioner, showngenerally at 700. FIG. 7b illustrates a front top plan view of awrapping material box, shown generally at 750, with the roll tensionerembodiment of FIG. 7a inserted therein and the box lid open. FIG. 7cillustrates a top plan view of the wrapping material box, showngenerally at 780, with the roll tensioner embodiment of FIG. 7a insertedtherein and the box lid closed.

Referring to FIGS. 7a-7c , in this embodiment the roll tensioner 721 isconstructed having distal and proximal end sections, 710 and 711,separated by a spring back/reversion section 712. Proximal end section711 includes opposing bottom tabs 711′ and center bottom tab 711″ (forstability) adapted to secure the tensioner 721 in place within awrapping material box 742. Distal end 710 is adapted to extend downwardvia spring back/reversion section 712 in the interior of box 742 when aforce is applied (i.e. the wrapping material roll). Preferably thedistal end 710 includes opposing top tabs 710′ forming a “T” distal endsection thereby providing greater surface area for abutting a wrappingmaterial end 734 or the area proximate thereto.

Roll tensioner 721 is attached within the wrapping material box 742acting as packaging, and as a dispenser for a wrapping material rollhaving a wrapping material 731 spooled on a tube (or core) 731′. The box742/packaging/dispenser, preferably contains an attached metal strip 733(metal cutter strip) with a jagged edge yielding the wrapping materialend 734. The conventional household box 742 may also contain perforatedtabs 742′ on each end of the box 742 which can be used by the end user,to retain the wrapping material roll within the box 742.

In this embodiment, roll tensioner 721 has no attachment means, i.e. noadhesive tape, but does require two vertical slots 781 in either thefront or rear vertical wall of box, herein shown in the front verticalwall 788 (see FIG. 8, showing rear vertical wall of box configuration)for receiving opposing bottom tabs 711′. The bottom tabs 711′ of thetensioner 721 flex and weave through the box slots 781, from within thebox 742, to secure the tensioner 721 in place. The tensioner 721 is heldcorrectly in position while under load from the wrapping material 731and is prevented from being pulled up and out of the box 742 because thebottom tabs 711′ prevent up and down movement once weaved through theslots 781. Slots 781 would also be helpful in correctly setting theposition of the tensioner 721 in relation to the wrapping material 731.With an adhesive tape application, there is always a risk of thetensioner being slightly out of proper alignment or off the correctposition. However, in this embodiment there is no adhesive tapeapplication and instead the tensioner is secured by way of the matingbottom tabs 711′ and slots 781 in the box 742 to set the position of thetensioner 721. If the slots 781 are not vertical, or are off center,then the tensioner 721 will also be off. This embodiment will not affectthe box's 742 lid 777 from closing, as the top lip of the box 742 wouldbe above the tabs 711′. See FIG. 7c showing the box 742 with the lid 777closed.

The roll tensioner 721 is mechanically bent over as shown at 721′ owingto the spring back/reversion section 712 as the wrapping material 731roll is placed into the box 742, setting the roll tensioner 721 into thecorrect position so that the wrapping material end 734 rests upward andaway from the front box 742 wall 788, thereby creating a gap between thewall 788 and the roll of wrapping material end 734. This makes it easierto grab the wrapping material end 734.

FIG. 8 illustrates the embodiment of the roll tensioner of FIG. 7a withattachment on the rear of the box rather than in the front of the box,as in FIG. 7b . Other than the location of slots 881, the configurationsof the tensioner and the box are the same. In this embodiment, rolltensioner 721 is constructed as set forth in regards to FIG. 7a , butthe box's 842 two vertical slots 881 are shown on the rear vertical wall888 of box 842 for receiving the opposing bottom tabs 711′ of tensioner721. The bottom tabs 711′ of the tensioner 721 flex and weave throughthe box slots 881, from within the box 842, to secure the tensioner 721in place.

Alternative features of the subject invention are contemplated andnon-limiting including, for example: the roll tensioner may beconstructed in a plethora of shapes and sizes, and from a plethora ofmaterials and colors; etc. These features are contemplated incombination with the main embodiments shown in the Figures.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit thepresent disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the aboveteaching. The exemplary embodiment was chosen and described in order tobest explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practicalapplication, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilizethe present disclosure and various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Having thus described the invention in rather full detail, it will beunderstood that such detail need not be strictly adhered to, but thatadditional changes and modifications may suggest themselves to oneskilled in the art, all falling within the scope of the invention asdefined by the subjoined claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A roll tensioner for use in maintaining awrapping material cut edge of a wrapping material retained on a wrappingmaterial roll located within a wrapping material box having an interiorcavity with an interior front wall having a top cutting edge, said rolltensioner comprising: a. a thin, flexible main body having distal andproximal end sections separated by a spring back reversion section, andformed having a first side and a second side; b. attachment meanslocated on at least a portion of said proximal end section on said firstside, said attachment means adapted to attach said proximal end sectionto said interior front wall of said wrapping material box; said proximalend section comprises opposing bottom tabs adapted to mate with slotslocated within a wall of said wrapping material box to secure said rolltensioner in place therein, and wherein said distal end comprisesopposing top tabs forming a “T” shaped distal end section; c. saidspring back reversion section being composed of a material that has animmediate elastic response to a static load and being capable of fullrecovery substantially immediately when said static load is removed; d.said distal end mechanically bending downwardly owing to said springback reversion section in said interior cavity of said wrapping materialbox; whereby said distal end section is adapted to rest against saidwrapping material proximal to said wrapping material cut edge to retainsaid wrapping material cut edge in an upward, substantially parallelposition to said interior front wall of said wrapping material box foreasy grasping of said wrapping material cut edge by an end user.
 2. Theroll tensioner as recited by claim 1, wherein the tensioner is composedof PVC and has an elastic modulus ranging from 1500 to 3,000 MPa.
 3. Theroll tensioner as recited by claim 1, wherein said tensioner is composedof a flexible clear material.
 4. The roll tensioner as recited by claim1, wherein said tensioner has a rectangular shape.
 5. The roll tensioneras recited by claim 1, wherein said tensioner is composed of polyester.6. The roll tensioner as recited by claim 1, wherein said tensioner iscomposed of Nylon.
 7. The roll tensioner as recited by claim 1, whereinsaid wrapping material is composed of a material selected from the groupof wrapping paper, aluminum foil, wax paper, freezer paper, parchmentpaper, deli wrap and paperboard.
 8. The roll tensioner as recited byclaim 1, wherein said tensioner is composed of a low-coefficient offriction material.
 9. The roll tensioner as recited by claim 1, whereinsaid tensioner is shaped as a quadrilateral with at least one pair ofparallel sides.
 10. The roll tensioner as recited by claim 1, whereinsaid tensioner has a polygonal shape.